5/10 ‘Must try harder': applying technology to the management of assessment and feedback

Abstract

This paper focuses on the information systems that are being used in support of assessment and feedback activities. It takes a generic ‘life-cycle’ view of the overall process and looks at how systems (particularly commercial off-the-shelf systems) relate to academic practice. Throughout the paper the term electronic management of assessment (EMA) is used to describe the way that technology can be used to support the management of the whole assessment and feedback lifecycle, including the electronic submission of assignments, marking, feedback and the return of marks and feedback to students. We look at common issues in the fit between systems and practice and measures that are being taken to address the issues and fill the gaps.